Frequency of malocclusion among 12 -15 years old school children in three sectors of Karachi

ABSTRACT

This study was done to explore the prevalence of malocclusion among 12-15 year old school children and to determine the differences of malocclusion status in gender. A cross sectional study was conducted in which a total of 1200 school children were examined. Out of these 718 students fulfilled the inclusion criteria using a non-randomized purposive sampling technique. The study was conducted during the period of 2009-2011 in Karachi schools [Bahadurabad, Nazimabad and Gulsahan-e-Iqbal areas]. Each individual was assessed visually with a millimetre ruler for the presence of different occlusal traits [normal occlusion, Class 1, Class 2 division 1, Class 2 division 2 and Class3 maloc-clusion] overjet [OJ], overbite [OB], crowding, midline diastema and cross bite. Gender dimorphism was analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test by using computer software [SPSS version 16.0]. Out of all the occlusive traits, Class 1 malocclusion and overbite was dominant feature in females. The baseline data explained in the present study can be utilized for the future planning of orthodontic treatment needed among the population